Testosterone biosynthesis

Over-inhibition of 5AR results in increased availability of testosterone, which may be shunted, via aromatase, to estradiol, causing “feminization,” ., gynecomastia, one of the side effects of 5AR inhibitor drugs; and decreased production of not only 5α-DHT, but its metabolites, 5α-Androstane-3α-17β-diol ( aka 3α-adiol, a storage form of 5α-DHT), and 5α-Androstane-3β-17β-diol ( aka 3β-adiol), an estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) ligand that promotes normal cellular differentiation, thus lessening risk of benign prostatic hypertrophy and prostate cancer. 22 , 23 , 24

Gonadotropin receptor hormone (GNRH) analogues are used therapeutically to reduce the ovarian production of estradiol in sex hormone-dependent disorders, including endometriosis and uterine fibroids. 21 Aromatase inhibitors are also used therapeutically to reduce circulating estrogens (E2 and E1) levels in hyperestrogenic conditions (ie, endometriosis in women and gynecomastia in men) and in estrogen-sensitive malignancies. 22-26 The complete or near complete suppression of estradiol production induced by these treatments produces low serum levels that can only be accurately measured by sensitive methods. 27 See Estradiol, Sensitive (LC/MS) [140244] .

Testosterone is significantly correlated with aggression and competitive behaviour and is directly facilitated by the latter. There are two theories on the role of testosterone in aggression and competition. [78] The first one is the challenge hypothesis which states that testosterone would increase during puberty thus facilitating reproductive and competitive behaviour which would include aggression. [78] Thus it is the challenge of competition among males of the species that facilitates aggression and violence. [78] Studies conducted have found direct correlation between testosterone and dominance especially among the most violent criminals in prison who had the highest testosterone levels. [78] The same research also found fathers (those outside competitive environments) had the lowest testosterone levels compared to other males. [78]

Testosterone biosynthesis

Gonadotropin receptor hormone (GNRH) analogues are used therapeutically to reduce the ovarian production of estradiol in sex hormone-dependent disorders, including endometriosis and uterine fibroids. 21 Aromatase inhibitors are also used therapeutically to reduce circulating estrogens (E2 and E1) levels in hyperestrogenic conditions (ie, endometriosis in women and gynecomastia in men) and in estrogen-sensitive malignancies. 22-26 The complete or near complete suppression of estradiol production induced by these treatments produces low serum levels that can only be accurately measured by sensitive methods. 27 See Estradiol, Sensitive (LC/MS) [140244] .